A common misconception is that your auto insurance rates will improve as the demerit points on your driving record are reduced. This is not the case.

Insurers are not concerned about how many or how few demerit points you have. What they do care about are the number and type of convictions on your record and if you have had any license suspensions.

HOW LONG THEY WILL AFFECT YOUR RATES FOR

Convictions will impact your insurance premiums for three years from the date you paid the ticket, not the date you received the ticket.

Suspensions are rated for 6 years.

 HOW MUCH THAT TICKET WILL ACTUALLY COST YOU

In addition to the fine associated with the ticket you will see an increase on your insurance rates for the next three years.

A minor conviction will result in the loss of your conviction free discount. With most insurance companies this discount is 15%.

A major conviction will result in a minimum 20% surcharge in addition to the loss of your conviction free discount.

A serious conviction will result in a minimum surcharge of 50% plus the loss of your conviction free discount.

EXAMPLES OF MINOR TICKETS

• Speeding – under 50km over
• Fail to produce evidence of insurance
• Following too closely
• Failing to signal
• Improper passing, lane change or turn
• Stop sign or traffic light infraction

EXAMPLES OF MAJOR TICKETS

• Speeding 50km or more but less than 60km over speed limit
• Failing to report an accident
• Improper passing of school buses
• Stunt Driving
• Operate motor vehicle – no insurance CAIA
• Class G1 drive unaccompanied by qualified driver

EXAMPLES OF SERIOUS TICKETS

• Driving 60km or more over the speed limit
• Class G1/G2/M1/M2 driving with alcohol in blood
• Criminal negligence
• Impaired driving
• Driving while license under suspension
• Careless driving